Kathy Brandel Obituary, St. Vincent And The Grenadines Photographic Society Pays Tribute
Kathy Brandel Obituary, Death – Our hearts are saddened for veteran cruisers Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry who may have met an untimely end while sailing in the Caribbean. Sincere condolences are extended to their family and friends during this tragic time. Kathy and Ralph, seasoned sailors, had embarked on a journey of a lifetime. They participated in the 2023 Caribbean Rally, sailing Simplicity from Hampton, VA to Antigua, and were spending the winter cruising the Eastern Caribbean.
The Disturbing Discovery: The Salty Dawg Sailing Association (SDSA), to which they belonged, received alarming news. Simplicity, their yacht, was found abandoned off a beach on the south coast of St. Vincent. Executives from the SDSA, including Tatja Hopman, were notified of the situation. Upon investigation by a concerned fellow sailor, evidence of apparent violence was discovered onboard Simplicity. However, Kathy and Ralph were nowhere to be found.
#### Swift Action and Cooperation
The good Samaritan promptly alerted the St. Vincent Coast Guard, who then contacted local authorities. The Coast Guard secured the vessel, initiating a joint investigation with the St. Vincent and the Grenadines police, the U.S Embassy, and the Grenada police department.
A Startling Development: In a chilling turn of events, it was revealed that three dangerous inmates had recently escaped from a Grenada prison. Speculations arose that these escapees might have boarded Simplicity. Fortunately, the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines police swiftly apprehended the three Grenadian suspects. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Kathy and Ralph’s disappearance continue, as the maritime community mourns the loss of two cherished members. As the investigation progresses, we hold onto hope for answers and closure for the grieving loved ones of Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry.
